US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that Chinese President Xi Jinping has approved a deal allowing TikTok to continue its operations in the United States. The statement followed what Trump described as a “very productive” phone call with Xi, during which he said progress was made on several major issues, including trade, fentanyl trafficking, and efforts to end the war in Ukraine. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “We made progress on many very important issues including Trade, Fentanyl, the need to bring the War between Russia and Ukraine to an end, and the approval of the TikTok Deal.” He also revealed plans to travel to China in early 2026. While Trump confirmed that an agreement on TikTok had been reached, he did not provide specific details about the deal. The app, owned by China-based ByteDance, has been under threat of a US ban unless its American operations are sold to a domestic buyer.
Russian Jets Breach Estonian Airspace, Intercepted by NATO
Three Russian Jets MiG-31 fighter reportedly entered Estonia’s airspace over the Baltic Sea on Friday, remaining for about 12 minutes before being intercepted by NATO forces. Alliance spokesperson Allison Hart confirmed the incident, saying NATO “responded immediately and intercepted the Russian aircraft,” describing the move as “another example of Moscow’s reckless behaviour.” The Estonian Defence Forces stated that Italian F-35 fighter jets, deployed at Ämari Air Base, carried out the interception as part of NATO’s ongoing Baltic air policing mission.
How AGM Mavericks Performed During the Marawi Siege?
AGM Mavericks – The Marawi Siege presented the Philippine military with an unprecedented challenge: dislodging deeply entrenched, well-armed militants from a densely populated urban center. In this crucible of urban warfare, the AGM-65 Maverick missile emerged as a critical asset, significantly shaping the tactical landscape. While specific, granular details of every Maverick strike remain within classified operational reports, its inherent capabilities for precision engagement made it exceptionally effective in a conflict where collateral damage mitigation and pinpoint accuracy were paramount. The Philippine Air Force, employing aircraft capable of launching these sophisticated air-to-surface missiles, likely utilized them to systematically neutralize enemy strongholds, sniper nests, and command-and-control centers embedded within buildings. The Maverick’s ability to strike a target with high accuracy meant that crucial enemy positions could be eliminated without necessarily leveling entire blocks, a vital consideration given the urban setting. This strategic deployment of precision-guided munitions like the Maverick allowed Philippine forces to overcome significant defensive advantages held by the militants, who had extensively fortified structures and created interconnected tunnel systems. The “fire-and-forget” capability of many Maverick variants would have given pilots the flexibility to launch and immediately maneuver, maintaining air superiority and reducing exposure to ground fire. Furthermore, models with imaging infrared seekers could have provided crucial targeting capabilities even in low-light or smoke-filled conditions common in a besieged city. The overall performance of the AGM-65 Maverick in Marawi was likely instrumental in breaking the deadlock, demonstrating how advanced air power, when employed with precision, can be a decisive factor in even the most challenging urban combat scenarios. Stay informed with muslimseo.com. You can also follow their updates on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
Can BRICS bloc the Global Order? A Deep Dive into its Ambitions and Challenges
The BRICS bloc, an expanding group of developing nations, is actively seeking to challenge the traditional US-led economic and political order. In theory, its growing economic clout, representing a significant portion of global GDP and population, gives it the potential to advocate for reforms in global governance. BRICS leaders have increasingly voiced criticisms of US policies, including trade tariffs, and are pushing for a more multipolar world. A key aspect of this challenge involves efforts towards de-dollarization, with discussions around creating alternative payment systems to SWIFT and promoting trade in local currencies, as highlighted by a Brasil de Fato report on BRICS leaders’ proposals for an alternative payment system. The expansion of BRICS, with new members joining, is seen by many as a strategic move to amplify the voice of the Global South and reduce dependence on Western-dominated institutions. However, the path to fundamentally reshaping the global order is fraught with challenges for BRICS. Critics point to internal rifts and divergent interests among member states, which can hinder a unified front. For instance, while some members like Russia and China are keen to directly challenge US hegemony and circumvent sanctions, others, such as India and Brazil, often aim for a more non-aligned stance, seeking to balance relations with both Western powers and the BRICS bloc. Despite ambitions for a common currency or extensive alternative financial systems, progress remains slow due to these internal differences and the entrenched nature of the existing global financial architecture. Ultimately, while BRICS certainly represents a significant emerging force and a growing demand for a more inclusive global system, the extent to which it can truly dethrone the US-led order will depend on its ability to overcome internal divisions and translate its collective potential into concrete, coordinated action. For a comprehensive discussion on whether BRICS can truly challenge the US-led world order, watch this Al Jazeera video. Stay informed with muslimseo.com. You can also follow their updates on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
Middle East Tensions, War Conflict on Global Oil Prices
The Middle East tensions between Israel and Iran have consistently sent ripples through global oil markets, often leading to immediate price surges. These spikes are primarily driven by a “risk premium” as traders factor in the potential for supply disruptions, especially concerning the Strait of Hormuz. This vital chokepoint, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil flows, becomes a major focal point during periods of heightened conflict. While a full-blown war could theoretically push oil prices well over $100 per barrel, as discussed by Oxford Economics on the impact of the Iran-Israel escalation, due to direct attacks on infrastructure or a prolonged closure of the Strait, the market’s initial reactions often reflect a fear-driven premium rather than sustained disruption. However, the longer-term picture reveals a more nuanced reality. Despite the dramatic headlines, the global oil market has demonstrated resilience. Major factors mitigating prolonged price hikes include ample global crude supply, significant spare production capacity from OPEC+ nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and increasing output from non-OPEC sources. These elements collectively offer a buffer against disruptions, allowing other producers to compensate for potential losses. As recent analyses suggest, the oil market often prioritizes supply and demand fundamentals over geopolitical risks in the long run. Even during periods of intense conflict, if actual oil flows remain largely unimpeded, prices tend to stabilize after initial volatility, as seen during periods of a fragile Iran-Israel ceasefire that calmed oil markets. For a deeper understanding of how the conflict impacts various markets, including oil, you can refer to insights from Julius Baer on the Israel-Iran conflict’s impact on oil prices, gold, equities and bonds. Stay informed with muslimseo.com. You can also follow their updates on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
BRICS and Critical Minerals, Powering the Clean Energy Future
BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—hold a powerful share of the world’s critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earths. These materials are essential for clean energy technologies such as solar panels, electric vehicles, batteries, and wind turbines. China alone produces over 60% of global lithium and refines nearly all rare earth elements; combined, BRICS countries dominate much of the mineral supply chain reddit.com+7eurasiareview.com+7zerocarbon-analytics.org+7. By working together, BRICS can shape global clean energy trade and reduce dependency on Western-controlled supply chains. Initiatives like the BRICS Geological Platform and joint investments through the New Development Bank aim to build mining, processing, and recycling capacity. However, differences in politics, regulations, and industrial strategies—especially between China and India—could slow deeper cooperation
Rail Border City Symbolizes Strong China–Russia Friendship
A border city built around rail transport has become a vivid symbol of China and Russia’s close ties. The community thrives with shared lives, blending cultures and traditions from both sides through daily interactions and cultural events. Locals enjoy a rich mix of Chinese and Russian influences—from cuisine and festivals to bilingual schools and joint business ventures. This vibrant cross-border integration highlights how partnership can create a unique and diverse way of life.
Why India Should Strengthen Ties with BRICS Now
As trade wars and global conflicts continue, India can benefit by working more closely with BRICS. Strengthening partnerships with countries like China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa could help India grow its economy, reduce dependence on the West, and play a bigger role in global decisions. With rising tensions and supply chain issues, BRICS gives India a way to explore new trade opportunities, invest in joint projects, and push for fairer global rules. Experts believe this is the right time for India to lead and protect its long-term interests through stronger BRICS cooperation
Why Pakistan Says “We’re Not Buying” China’s J‑35 Jets
Pakistan recently denied signing any deal for China’s J-35 stealth fighters, dismissing earlier reports as mere “media chatter,” according to Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. Despite Chinese offers and apparent interest—like training pilots for the jets and talk of acquiring up to 40 aircraft—there’s been no formal agreement, and Islamabad says it lacks the funds to proceed news.abplive.com+13theprint.in+13economictimes.indiatimes.com+13. This backtrack comes amid Pakistan’s juggling act between strengthening defense ties with China and maintaining good relations with the U.S., which it’s currently courting for economic support. The uncertainty also reflects Pakistan’s broader financial constraints—while military spending is rising, the country remains heavily reliant on IMF loans and easy terms from Beijing .
Where Was Khamenei Hiding? Iran’s Supreme Leader Reappears After War
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stayed out of public view for nearly two weeks—reportedly hiding in an underground bunker near Tehran in the town of Lavizan with family and top guards—during the 12-day conflict with Israel that began on June 13 2025. Israeli officials believe he went into “very great depths” to avoid being targeted in airstrikes, and Iran’s elite Vali-ye Amr unit reportedly managed his security and communications while he remained underground en.wikipedia.org+3hindustantimes.com+3livemint.com+3. Khamenei resurfaced on June 26 in a prerecorded televised statement—their first since the ceasefire—claiming Iran “delivered a slap to America’s face,” downplaying the damage to nuclear sites, and warning the U.S. and Israel against future attacks hindustantimes.com+5the-journal.com+5economictimes.indiatimes.com+5. His disappearance fueled speculation about his health, regime control, and whether internal leaders sidelined him during critical strategic decisions